Endometriosis Treatment Decisions

Women often have to wait for several years before finally receiving a diagnosis of endometriosis. This is because many people including physicians still misunderstand the disease. After long periods of experiencing debilitating pain, you may have finally received a diagnosis and this may have come as a relief. However, you may now be confused about your treatment options. This article aims to help you with your endometriosis treatment decisions.

Importance of a patient-centered approach

Every patient is unique and you should have full autonomy over your treatment choice.

“No doctor should ever say “You need surgery,” to their patient”, according to Dr. Seckin, who explains the importance of a patient-centered treatment approach. “However, deep endometriosis warrants special attention.

Importance of patient education

On the flip side of the coin, it is also important to educate patients about what is normal and what is not. Due to the stigma still surrounding endometriosis, many women think that their pain is normal.

“The doctor should listen to and treat each patient individually and explain to them what is normal and what is not,” Dr. Seckin says. “The patient can then make their own informed decision”.

If your symptoms are negatively affecting your life, you should discuss with your doctor all the possible treatment options that are available to you. Surgery may not be necessary for your pain and the hormonal suppression of ovulation may be sufficient.

However, in the case of endometrioma, the picture is a little different.

“It is like a hand grenade,” Dr. Seckin explains, “it may leak and implant in the diaphragm and cul de sac, and interfere with fertility.”

Endometriosis treatment decisions when it comes to fertility

However, in case you are planning to become pregnant, hormonal therapy is not an option.

It is important to note that patients with endometriosis have low fertility rates and 40-70% of unexplained infertility cases are due to endometriosis.

Moreover, in vitro fertilization (IVF) rates in women with endometriosis are lower than normal.

“Patients with endometriosis should not be taken for a ride and undergo unnecessary IVF attempts that are most likely going to fail,” Dr, Seckin says.

If you decide to undergo surgery

If you decide to undergo surgery be sure to ask your doctor all the relevant questions.

Know the type of surgery that they will be performing and know the difference between the types of endometriosis surgery.

Are you confused about your treatment options? Please share your thoughts by leaving a comment on our post on Facebook or Instagram.